NEW DELHI: A recent Instagram video posted by Kolkata-based model Sannati Mitra has gone viral, sparking widespread outrage online. In the video, Mitra is seen dancing in a white towel at the iconic India Gate in Delhi, recreating a famous sequence from the Bollywood classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.
The footage, uploaded in celebration of International Men’s Day, quickly garnered over 2 lakh views within hours, but not without drawing sharp criticism from the public.
In her caption, she wrote, “Happy International Men’s Day. May you all continue to inspire and motivate others with your courage, kindness, and empathy.”
Viewers expressed their displeasure at the seemingly inappropriate setting for such a performance, particularly in a public space revered for its historical significance.
The footage shows Mitra twirling in the towel, with a visibly shocked crowd—including children—looking on. At one point, she partially removes the towel, further fueling the backlash.
Social media users were quick to condemn the act, with many calling it a blatant attempt to gain fame through “cheap tactics” and “obscenity.”
While the video has caught the attention of many, it’s not the first time Mitra has faced controversy. Earlier, she had stirred a similar debate after sharing a photo taken at a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata.
In that instance, Mitra posed with two other women, wearing outfits that many considered unsuitable for a religious setting—Mitra herself donned a thigh-high slit black gown, while her friends wore similarly revealing attire.
The incident sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with many condemning the women for disrespecting the occasion and the religious significance of the pandal.
In response to the latest video, some social media users expressed outrage at what they perceived as a lack of respect for the martyrs commemorated at India Gate.
One Instagram user demanded that Mitra be arrested for her actions, stating that she had “crossed all limits” by performing in such a manner at a site sacred to the nation. Another user voiced their frustration, calling for authorities to take action against the “vulgarity” displayed in a public place, especially in light of the historical importance of the location.
Despite the backlash, Mitra defended her actions, stating that the video was intended as a tribute to the courage, kindness, and empathy of men.
However, the public’s response has been overwhelmingly negative, with many calling for stricter measures against such acts in the future.